Under the Mistletoe

Small Town Shenanigans #2

by Penny Zeller

He's a nerdy tourist needing a vacation.
She's a bed and breakfast employee with a broken heart.
Love is the last thing they expect to find this Christmas.

Take a trip to Cloverdale Falls in this hilarious Christian rom-com, the second in the Small Town Shenanigans Series. Under the Mistletoe can be read as a standalone or enjoyed in conjunction with Recipe for Love .

Please note: Under the Mistletoe is a faith-filled contemporary Christian book.

Written especially for those who enjoy the following tropes:

Fun Rom-com (think Great American Family/Pureflix or Hallmark with faith)
Friends to more
Opposites
He falls first
Introvert/Extrovert
Small town
Christmas
Numerous hilarious moments
Secondary characters in every generation

Genres: Christmas, Romance, Christian Fiction

275 pages, Paperback

First published November 18, 2025

About the author

Penny Zeller is known for her heartfelt stories of faith-filled happily ever afters and her passion to impact lives for Christ through fiction. Her books feature tender romance, steady doses of humor, and memorable characters that stay with you long after the last page.

While she has had a love for writing since childhood, Penny began her adult writing career penning articles for national and regional publications on a wide variety of topics.

Today Penny is a multi-published author of over two dozen books and is also a fitness instructor, loves the outdoors, and is a flower gardening addict. In her spare time, she enjoys camping, hiking, kayaking, biking, birdwatching, reading, running, and playing volleyball.

Penny resides with her husband and two daughters in small-town America and loves to connect with her readers at her website at www.pennyzeller.com, her blog, www.pennyzeller.wordpress.com, and her Facebook page at www.facebook.com/pennyzellerbooks where she posts faith, funnies, writing updates, and encouragement. All of her socials can be found at https://linktr.ee/pennyzeller.

Reviews

[Carolyn Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Under the Mistletoe is a fun, uplifting contemporary Christian romance. It was a pleasure returning to the wonderful quaint small town of Cloverdale Falls to reconnect with old friends, especially delightfully quirky widows Maeve and Beulah. and meet some new ones! I laughed out loud at the outlandish scenes in which Maeve and Beulah engage Braxton to help them with their "investigations". Braxton and Gracely are an adorable couple! He's the ultimate introvert. She's the consummate extrovert. Yet, they are totally compatible. I admire the way their faith shines through in their daily lives. I enjoyed how their sweet romance blossomed. They are now high on my list of favorite fictional couples. I loved this story with its perfect combination of humorous and poignant moments. I highly recommend it.
I read an early copy of this book from the author/publisher with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Melissa (christianbooksandcoffee) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! It is such a cute Christmas Romcom. I loved returning to Cloverdale Falls. Braxton is an introvert, nerdy and learning how to take a vacation. Gracely is helping run the Bed and Breakfast, she is more extroverted and has had a bad previous relationship with a controlling boyfriend. Braxton meets Gracely when he checks in to the Bed and Breakfast. He is instantly drawn to her. I loved watching these 2 become a couple. They are both such great characters. I loved seeing Maeve and Beulah again with their investigation shenanigans and I loved how they roped Braxton in with them. Good Christian content. Overall, this was a cute and funny small town romance filled with Christmas charm and I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Jeanette Durkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a delightful book! The setting of Cloverdale Falls is picturesque and quaint. I felt cozy and nostalgic when the characters sang Christmas hymns and drank hot chocolate. There are a few mysteries and a sweet love story!

The characters are relatable and easy to like! Maeve and Beulah are a hoot! They are certified private investigators who care deeply about solving cases. Gracely is wonderful! She makes every guest at the bed and breakfast feel welcome and special. Braxton is adorable! He's a little bit shy and awkward but he soon loosens up and even gets involved with the private investigators!

As always faith in God is prevalent throughout the book. I so appreciate that because it's encouraging and inspiring. I think it's a wonderful idea that the bed and breakfast offered free transportation to church!!

***If you follow my reviews you know that Penny Zeller is my favorite author! She writes historical fiction, contemporary Christian Romance, and Christian romantic suspense!!

I was provided a complimentary copy of the book by the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Laura (kroosreadsandreviews) · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is so good to be back in Cloverdale Falls! Maeve and Beulah are such a riot. Their shenanigans can always put a smile on my face.

Braxton and Gracely are total opposites but shared the interests that mattered the most. I loved how each night they read the Bible together. The concern that they both shared for the people around them was also exemplary.

Thanks to the author for the arc. The opinions are my own!

[Trudy Cordle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved Braxton and Gracely's story!! Braxton decides to go visit Cloverdale Falls for his vacation, not thinking that was when his cousin and his new wife would be gone for their honeymoon. Since he's booked into the B & B, he's not worried about not knowing anyone in town. He's such an introvert, he's sure he'll be fine on his own. Until he meets Gracely, who is in town covering the B & B while her aunt and uncle are on a cruise they won for the best B & B in their area. Now, Braxton is wanting to get to know Gracely better, is roped in to helping with a few mysteries, and is way out of his comfort zone in more ways than one. Gracely isn't looking for any romantic involvement, as her last boyfriend tried to remake her and not let her be herself. Then she meets Braxton, who is totally opposite her ex. The more time they spend together, the more they fall for each other. Will this introverted man and this extrovert woman be able to find common ground and make a relationship work? I LOVE how they both rely on God to lead them, and how they don't try to walk ahead of Him, but to wait for His timing.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.

[Christian Shelves · Rating 5 out of 5]

Penny Zeller is masterful at writing small towns with heart, humour, and grace. In this case, we get to meet Gracely Ecklund, a kind young woman filling in for her aunt and uncle's bed and breakfast. It's the perfect setup for her to meet Braxton Wertz, who is her opposite in every way. As a result, these two characters learn what it means to serve one another and to look out for the other's best interests. Through Grace and Braxton's godly behaviour, it's evident just how much heart is infused into their story, especially when handling past relationship trauma.

In terms of the humour, when septuagenarians Maeve and Beulah are back at it again with their private investigation business, readers can’t help but smile at what ensues. I love that the Small Town Shenanigans series extend beyond initial miscommunications and hilarious assumptions. The characters are able to maturely approach matters and clear up any lingering questions, leading to forgiveness and genuine friendships. It's easy to see just how much everyone in Cloverdale Falls loves each other, making it a series that is easy to return to. If you are looking for a Christmas story gently laced with grace upon realizing what true worth looks like in Christ, Under the Mistletoe is a lighthearted and joyful read.

Review link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...

Many thanks to Maplebrook Publishing and NetGalley for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

[Terri Harr · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a pleasure it was to visit Cloverdale Falls again! It is filled with the most interesting and caring people!

I got to know Hudson’s cousin, Braxton much better. He is such a kind and considerate young man! In Recipe For Love, he seems more like a business tycoon with little time to slow down. In this book, we get a closer look at WHY that is. He is forced to take a vacation and his dad refuses to talk business so he actually CAN get a break from work.

Gracely is running the bed and breakfast while her aunt and uncle are on vacation. She takes it very seriously and does it with such care and intention that everyone feels so welcome, except one very unhappy woman.

Braxton and Gracely are so different in many ways but in the things that matter, they come together beautifully. Their sweet love story blooms naturally as they get to know each other at the bed and breakfast, interacting with the other guests and people in town.

The town is filled with quirky but love able characters that put a smile on my face. I’m sure you will feel the same way! Check out Recipe For Love AND Under the Mistletoe NOW! You won’t be disappointed!

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

oh I just loved this third book in Penny Zeller's Small Town Shenanigans series. Under the Mistletoe was such a sweet, funny, faith-filled book. I loved going back to Cloverdale Falls and seeing old friends and getting to know other characters better.
Gracely and Braxton were both introduced in the previous book, but in the book we got to focus on their story.Braxton is back in town for a vacation and is staying at the B&B that Gracely's aunt and uncle own. Gracely is in charge however because they are on a trip.
There are mysteries to solve, which means we get to see Maeve and Beulah again with their Investigation Agency.
If you love small town happenings, celebrations and traditions, you'll get a nice helping of them in Cloverdale Falls. And we see the importance of faith in the characters' daily lives.
And I loved seeing Braxton and Gracely's relationship evolve. I had to wonder how the author was going to bring such opposites together, especially when they lived so far apart.
Another wonderful book by this author

[Courtney Pityer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first time participating on an Arc Team with Penny Zeller so thank you for giving me the opportunity to do this. If you are wanting to get into the Holiday spirit a little bit early and also want something that has all the vibes of a hallmark Christmas movie be sure to pick up this book when it comes out. The plot is very engaging so you won't be bored and the characters are a hoot. I am thankful that I took the opportunity to read this book.

We are introduced to Braxton who plans a trip and stays at the local Bed and Breakfast. He orginally arrived to visit his cousins but it turns out they were gone. So for the time being he enjoys vacationing in anonymity which can actually be a really nice treat.

It is there where he meets Gracely who is filling in as the innkeeper while her aunt and uncle are on vacation. Although they are complete opposites in personality they immediately hit it off. Will love bloom for these two in the short ammount of time they are together.

[J.E. Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Under the Mistletoe is a wonderful Christmas story of second chances and rekindled love. The backdrop is set around a bed and breakfast in Cloverdale Falls. Gracely, who has had a bad relationship and sworn off men, is covering the inn for her aunt and uncle while they are on a cruise. She loves the inn and takes her work seriously, but that is before a handsome man checks in and a grumpy older woman with a bad attitude decides to stay there. Gracely's life is about to change.

I loved seeing how Gracely deals with troubling issues, as she leans more and more on her faith. The inn's guests become the recipients of acts of compassion and forgiveness. The ending is sweet, and I enjoyed the entire uplifting and inspirational story. This one will have you turning pages, as you examine tender moments, and times of joy and laughter. You don't want to miss this one!

I received an ARC from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

[Sharon Whalley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved revisiting this sweet little town, of Coverdale Falls, with Beulah and Maeve, who were as quirky as ever. A story where characters are challenged and others come alongside to guide. Where opposites gel and problems are overcome. Each character has so many layers which adds depth to the story. I loved the digging into past history and reuniting old friends. But most of all I loved how God was at the centre of their lives and how Braxon and Gracey allowed this to shine through their interactions with everyone.
I was gifted an audible copy of this book by the author all comments are my own.

[Shonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a fun book with quirky characters that I fell in love with. The cute town of Cloverdale Falls is a cozy small town with lots of friendly neighbors. Plus, there is Henrietta, who wouldn't love her? Laugh-out-loud humor, a sweet romance, and fun investigations kept me entertained. I love how lessons of God’s word are wrapped into the story and give examples on how to pray, forgive, and love those who are hurtful—a gentle reminder of how we all can use help in this area of our lives. A fun and delightful read I couldn't put down and didn't want to end!

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a lighthearted, fun Christmastime novel. It features some goofy humor alongside romance and thoughtful observations. I enjoyed reading it.
I received a free preview copy from the Netgalley program in exchange for an honest review.

[DevotedToHope · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cloverdale Falls is the kind of place where Christmas joy settles into every corner; lights glow, laughter rises, and each page carries a warm sparkle of kindness. Under the Mistletoe captures that holiday cheer with humor, heart, and Christ-centered warmth in the most delightful way.

Braxton and Gracely are an absolutely charming pair. He arrives hoping for a quiet, no-fuss vacation. She’s keeping the bed and breakfast running with grace and a bright, welcoming presence that lights up every scene. Their opposite personalities create a wonderful mix of funny moments, steady kindness, and sweet surprises woven throughout their story.

Gracely’s journey carries a truth that shines: “The verse from Luke twelve reminder her once again that her value was not determined by what someone else thought or didn’t think, but her worth was found in Jesus Christ.” That truth stands tall and steady, and I love how it anchors her heart.

And Braxton… what a treasure. “…Braxton desired to be more like Jesus. Even if sometimes the tests thrown his way were challenging.” His quiet courage and ready kindness made him a standout hero.

Forgiveness also shines brightly, especially in this line: “… whether or not she …. I’m called to forgive her. Not because I think she’s sincere, because that’s out of the question. But because of what Jesus did for me, and because I’ve been forgiven for much.” It is a tender reminder that forgiveness is easy when I remember the mercy, grace, love, and forgiveness Jesus has poured over my life.

Add in the lovable chaos of Cloverdale Falls Investigations, quirky guests, snowy sidewalks, twinkling lights, small-town traditions, and plenty of joyful Christmas charm, and this story becomes a bright, faith-filled holiday that had me smiling.

Perfect for readers who treasure Christmas romance, cozy small towns, laughter, and seasonal joy … that honor Jesus!

I received a digital version of this book from the author. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. My review focuses on writing and story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.

[Lana Burton · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fantastic story that I thoroughly enjoyed reading! Gracely is filling in, running her aunt’s and uncle’s bed and breakfast, because they won a cruise for having the highest rated B&B in their state. Gracely loved to help out there, as she enjoyed meeting all of the people. Braxton, an introvert, and cousin of the guy who was snooping around for his uncle’s company, to see if Coverdale Falls was a town that could use an influx of money to upgrade the streets, etc. He turned out to be a great guy and married the bakery owner’s daughter. Braxton just wanted to rest and read. His dad forced him to get away for a vacation from work, because he was a workaholic! Braxton was instantly drawn to Gracely- that smile, her friendliness, and her love of Cloverdale Falls. She made sure he settled in and told him she served dinner each night at 6 pm. He had no plans of eating with the other guests, but the smells that were wafting up to his room changed his mind! He smelled roast and all the trimmings, he was sure of that, and it was his favorite meal. At every meal, the two were drawn together more and more, but both had been through a bad breakup before and were nervous about getting involved with a new person. Every day, Braxton enjoyed himself more than he ever had before, and he knew it was because of Gracely. You must get this book and read about all of the happenings, especially when Maeve and Beulah recruited him to be a part of their “investigative” team. It was hilarious! This whole book is filled with so much joy, and laughter, and the Bible was read each night, there was prayer a lot. And, there’s a very happily ever after, even though it looked like there could be no way…but God! I am on the arc team, and this review is my very own opinion! 📕♥️

[Patty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Under the Mistletoe
Small Town Shenanigans Book 2
By: Penny Zeller
Narrated by: Emma Faye

Fun! Fun! Fun! I am enjoying my time at Cloverdale Falls. This small town is packed with so much fun, from it's own detective agency to beautiful romance! This one features Braxton and Gracely. Braxton is new to town visiting on vacation when he meets Gracely at the bed and breakfast. This introvert is immediately attracted to the Gracely's bubbly personality. She is not looking for any romantic involvement though after her last relationship. How will he get her attention being as shy as he is? Quickly roped into to helping the nosy women of the detective agency he may get the breaks he needs. This is a story that is inspirational and funny with hysterical characters that give sage advice. Loved this one!

Emma Faye is the story teller and she finds the essence of each character, bringing them to life. She gives Braxton the solitary feel of the man he is and slowly pulls him out. As Gracely she gives the fun feel, but with slight hesitation until trust is built. And I can't forget Maeve and Buelah, perfect comedic timing. Great narration!

[Erin Snyder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Under the Mistletoe has all the makings of a good book. Sweet, clean romance, Christmas adventures, and even a festive chicken! All the characters both humans and pets, bring a lot to this story, creating a festive yuletide tale.

The two main characters are sweet and fun, especially Braxton. I loved his shy, semi-nerdy personality! Both Braxton and Gracely have to overcome challenges in this story that are so relatable to real life.

I love how Penny weaves good Christian character building in her characters and stories. From overcoming their fear of crowds, to a difficult patron at the B&B, the characters show Christian love in action.

And who couldn’t love the scene with Henrietta the hen, chasing a dog! Definitely a classic!! Highly recommended!

[Denise A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet, fun, and lovable characters!

This book is a delight to read, filled with laughter, small town charm, and swoon worthy romance! There’s even a little mystery as well, with a geriatric sleuthing team who love to pull others into their shenanigans, with hilarious results! This is the second book of the series but is a standalone, although I would recommend reading them in order as time has passed in between the two books. The book is well written, the characters come alive and become your friends, and it’s the perfect book to escape into for the holiday season! Definitely recommend this book!

[Evelyn Foreman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having read this author’s works previously, I knew no matter the content of this book, I would love it. But I had no idea just how much! I laughed out loud throughout, enjoying the wit between Gracely and Braxton, the banter between life long friends Maeve and Beulah (also the very proud Cloverdale Falls Investigation entrepreneurs) and much, much more. And to so intricately weave the message of Christ from start to finish is nothing short of brilliant! There is not a rating high enough for this work of heart!

[BrendaLee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am loving these Cloverdale Falls people! A great audiobook that will hold your attention! I loved Gracely and Braxton and how they got to know each other.
So many incidents with the ladies investigating team. I got a laugh out of them dressing Braxton up as a member. This little small town is full of wonderful characters.
Don’t miss this faith filled Contemporary Romance.
I received a copy of this book from the author but was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[Jody · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was great being back in Cloverdale Falls, a small town known for its real live chicken mascot, Henrietta and quirky private investigators, Maeve and Beulah plus other towns folk. I loved the humor and lighthearted storyline, mystery solving and blossoming love. It just made me smile reading it. And as always by this author, you will find an inspirational message and encouraging words.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. The review is my honest opinion of it.

[Lana Burton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly loved every page of this book! It has all of the qualities and characters that I love to find in a great book! There was wit and humor; an extrovert and an introvert and, of course, our friends from the previous books in this series! What would it have been like without our friendly spies? I was on the arc team and was certainly glad of it! This is my personal opinion of the book.

[Jacqueline Johnston Cotton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a wonderful written story and I loved every page of it! Cute, funny and full of amazing and colorful characters. I need to visit charming Cloverdale Falls! It was sweet and inspiring delivering a wholesome and satisfying story of two people who find love in the most unexpected place. A sweet and hilarious holiday read, so entertaining!

[Amy Russell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just like the first book in this series, it's funny, faith-filled, and full of family and quirky, loveable characters. The author does a great job of describing how an introvert gets "peopled-out". I love how the adult characters are close to their families and seek out their parents' counsel when considering a mate.

[Lori Chasko · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! It had the Christmas feels that you would expect given the title and also the element of faith that stays consistent with the author. A job well done!

[Linda Palmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very cute romantic comedy story. Great characters and an enjoyable story. Great for those who enjoy Christian romantic comedy stories. I received a copy of this book and all opinions are my own.

[C · Rating 5 out of 5]

I fell in love with the characters a great find and easy read. thank you Penny for writing such a beautiful book.

[Lauri Gentry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyable Christmas romance.

[Callum Lambart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Under the Mistletoe is a sweet, small-town Christmas rom-com that blends gentle humor with heartfelt moments of healing and hope. Penny Zeller’s cozy atmosphere and Emma Faye’s warm narration make it an uplifting holiday listen perfect for fans of faith-based romance.

[Lori Chasko · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was great! I enjoy this author!